Yes I agree...the door handle must be removed. Sort of a job in itself since the bolts are so small you can barely see them (in my car anyway). Well I Think those the the door handle mounting screws. Sort of small. You could never think those held the door handle to the door. Hmm...guess I will find out.

Have to get a couple of Torx drivers and maybe review the YouTube videos again.

I found this job to be more difficult than most claim. It's tough to work blind in the door panel. It may be beneficial to examine pics of the l;atch assembly on ebay tp understand the nature of mounting points and plastic frame assembly that spans from the bottom to the top of the door..